A PUB has closed after a frontline healthcare worker who visited the venue tested positive for coronavirus.

Staff at Bibendum Bar and Restaurant in Eastbourne are now being tested to make sure the virus has not been spread.

It is reported that the pub was notified of the case by the NHS Test and Trace service.

A notice is being placed in the window of the building, in South Street, to notify customers of the reason for the site’s sudden closure.

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Drew Smith of Bibendum said the site would be deep-cleaned and sanitised, explaining that “customers and our beloved community as a whole are valued far more than the operation of the business itself”.

A statement released by Bibendum read: “It has been brought to our attention that a frontline NHS worker who recently visited our venue has been tested positive for Covid-19.

“As a team, we have been exercising extreme caution in service and following our company Covid-19 and Government protocols for reopening, with exceptional sanitisation, hygiene and social distancing measures in place.

“We have also been liaising closely with the local council and licensing teams to ensure the safety of our staff and guests. Our reopening strategy and pragmatic approach has been commended.

“Nevertheless, during these unprecedented times, the health and safety of our staff, customers and our beloved community as a whole are valued far more than the operation of the business itself. As a public service outlet, we have a duty to protect everyone.

“With the above information, we have taken the precautionary measures to temporarily close the business and ensure all of our staff team get tested despite the lack of symptoms being exhibited, while completing a further deep clean and sanitisation of the venue.

“We will also continue to liaise with the local authority and assist with NHS Test and Trace accordingly, as we always have.

“At this time the advice received states that self-isolation is not necessary, but extra care should be made when social distancing and increased hand and respiratory hygiene should be observed.

The Argus:

“If you are worried that you may have symptoms, you are to follow government advice (stay at home).

“We must reiterate that this is a precautionary measure and we value public health over anything. We would like to take this opportunity to thank all frontline workers for their services, and all of our staff team for their understanding and cooperation in this matter.

“We hope to be open again very soon and send our wishes to all of our customers, staff and our community.”

This is not the first Sussex pub to close due to staff coming into contact with coronavirus.

The Downsman, in Wakehurst Drive, Southgate, closed on Sunday after two members of staff tested positive for coronavirus.

In a statement, the pub said: “We have taken the decision to temporarily close The Downsman after two members of our team tested positive for Covid-19 this afternoon.

The Argus:

“The staff members took tests as a precaution despite showing little to no signs of symptoms, and have not been on the premises since early last week and are now self isolating.

“We have been in contact with Public Health England to make them aware of the situation and as a result we have chosen to close briefly to carry out a further deep clean of the pub as a precaution for the safety of our customers.

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“We have followed all of the required steps at this stage and the details of customers who have visited us have been made available to the NHS Test and Trace team.

“We expect to be back open again very soon once we are assured that it is safe to do so.

“Thank you all for your understanding at this time and we hope to see you soon.”